NHRC notice to Haryana over infant mortality

New Delhi: The NHRC has issued notice to the Haryana government over the increase in the infant mortality rate in the state due to deficiency of iron and poor nutrition among pregnant women, a statement said here on Friday.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report, which stated infant mortality rate increased to around 50 from 44 for every 1000 births in Karnal district during 2013-2014.Reportedly, of the 34,000 infants born, 1,692 didn't survive.

Deficiency of iron and poor nutrition among pregnant women was one of the major reasons behind such deaths.

The commission observed that the contents of the report, if true, raise serious issue of violation of right to life and health of the newly born and their mothers.

The notice has been issued to the chief secretary of the state, calling for a report within four weeks.